How to prevent and treat dry skin

Our skin is under constant attack. What with ageing, harsh weather, work, home cleaning substances, tanning, make-up and neglect, is there any wonder that your skin is not always looking its best?

And as winter winds blow and temperatures drop skin dries out further.

Although some people suffer from overly oily skin the most common problem that day to day life can cause is dry skin. As Autumn and Winter approach your skin will face a different set of challenges. The Sun in Summer may dry your skin but the cold sharp weather of Winter will do it more damage.

In the past men tended to neglect their skin but now both men and women have realised the importance of skin care. If skin becomes extremely dry open wounds and cracks can occur. This can lead to infections and be painful. Your skin does not have to be dry though. Consider a few simple ways to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.

Prevention is always better than having to look for a cure
When we are young our skin tends to repair itself quickly. With age the signs of skin damage are often permanent. This means that it is better to:

• Start a good skin care regime from a young age.
• Protect your skin from the sun by wearing a good sunscreen on a daily basis.
• Cleanse and moisturise your facial skin regularly.
• Apply extra rich cream to your knees, feet, hands and elbows.
• Protect your skin from the harsh weather in winter also.
  

Assess your skin
Take a good look at your skin, in order to assess its present condition. Some people have a combination skin which means that the skin can be oily but have dry patches in places. Take a shower, dry yourself and have a good look at yourself in a full length mirror, if possible. Hold a smaller mirror in your hand so that you can look at your back in the full length mirror. If there are any problem areas of your skin begin a skin repair regime.

Underlying health problems
Occasionally dry skin will be the result of an underlying health condition such as dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, or seborrhea. If you have a thyroid condition this may also affect the condition of your skin. If you suspect any such health problems consult your medical practitioner.

Knowing the possible causes of dry skin may help you to prevent it
There are many possible causes of dry skin such as:

• Showering or bathing in water that is too hot. Turn the thermostat down a little.
• Showering and bathing too often. We all love to be clean these days but if you bathe and shower too often your skin may dry out. Remember also, to chose shower creams, gels and soaps that will not dry your skin out.
• Having a poor diet. Make sure that your diet includes plenty of water, fresh fruit, nuts and vegetables and is rich in vitamin A and C. Limit the amount of alcohol, confectionery, caffeine, processed and junk foods that you consume.
• Sun damage can cause many problems for your skin. Overall sun damage can leave your skin very dry. Although sun screens and a good sun block will help they will not entirely prevent any problems. It is far better to avoid long periods in the sun or sit in the shade.
• Your work environment. Depending upon where you work your skin can suffer. If the atmosphere at work is very dry your skin will be affected. Contact your human resources or occupational health department if necessary. Hopefully they will be able to address any such problems.
• The climate and weather. Dry skin problems can occur in hot and dry climates as well as cold and chilly ones. In the winter months the air quality in our homes may not be conducive to healthy looking skin. Skin needs a good level of moisture to prevent it from drying out.
• The cosmetics and creams that you already use. Ensure that you use the correct creams on your skin. For example, do not buy and use creams that are designed for use on oily skin, unless that is what you have. Avoid perfumed creams that may be pleasant to use but have little real benefits for your skin. Read the label on cosmetics and buy the best quality that you can afford. This will help to prevent skin damage from your cosmetics.

You will need

• To always be conscious and aware that your skin should not be neglected or maltreated.
• A good skin care attitude.
• A healthy diet rich in foods such as fruit, nuts, vitamins and essential fats.
• To protect your skin when necessary and possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid consuming too much caffeine, alcohol, junk foods and sugary treats.
• Avoid consuming foods that contain hydrogenated fats or trans fatty acids.
• Do not sit or lay in the sun for long periods of time.
• Always wear protective sun creams.
• A sun hat or sunshade will help